1979 Fiat 133 vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Fiat 133. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Fiat 133 would be higher. At 1,324 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda 323 (74 HP) has 40 more horse power than 1979 Fiat 133. (34 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1979 Fiat 133. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda 323 weights approximately 380 kg more than 1979 Fiat 133. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Fiat 133 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1979 Fiat 133. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 323, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1998 Mazda 323 (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Fiat 133. (54 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1998 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Fiat 133.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Fiat 133 | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | 133 | 323 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 843 cc | 1324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 54 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 65 mm | 71 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.9:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 690 kg | 1070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3460 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2030 mm | 2620 mm |
